Cider Chat

Interviewing cidermakers importers, orchardists, foodies, farmers and cider enthusiasts around the world. Let’s delve into the semantics of cider…or is it hard cider, cidre, sidra or fermented apple juice? The truth is out there in Ciderville and we are going to find it. We toast in celebration of cider; As a libation, a gift from the gods, a taste of terroir, and a hard pressed good time. Ready to quench your thirst? Grab a glass and join this chat! See you in Ciderville!

Gypsy Circus Cider Company founders and makers, Stephanie & Aaron Carson, are helping to put cider on the map in Tennessee. They have two facilities with one dedicated to barrel aging ciders and the main production site which is also the location for their Gypsy Circus Taproom.

The cidery opened for business in April of 2016 and has produced over 16 ciders each with whimsical names that connect to the backdrop of their gypsy lifestyle (the couple like to travel) and to the circus life.

Names like;

Whilring Deverish - a coffee cider make with Nashville based Frothy Monkey coffee took home a gold from GLINTCAP in 2017

The Carson's pay attention to detail not only with their ciders, but also their branding. Take a look at a can of their dry cider Raindancer and listen to Aaron talk about the hidden graphics that they put on the label.

Part of the couple's success is that they are keenly aware of how the beverage market works. Aaron Carson is the author of East Tennessee Beer, the executive director for Superfly Fabulous Events, founder of Tri-Cities Craft Beer Week and Tennessee Championship of Beers. Aaron co-founded the Brewly Noted Beer Trail and started the Tri-Cities Pro Brewers Guild.